Acute Groin Strain

What is Acute Groin Strain?

Injury can occur if the adductor muscle is overstretched or forcibly contracted, or a combination of both. An acute groin strain can occur during a rapid change in direction while running.

It is typically felt as a sudden pain or initial tearing sensation along the inside of the thigh, or in the groin region.

What should you not do?

In the first few days after the injury, you should avoid activities that increase blood flow to the muscles as these can prolong bleeding in the muscle. This can result in further pain and prolongs the recovery period. Excessive physical activity, heat rubs, massage, hot showers, stretching of the groin and alcohol consumption should also be avoided.

If you have severe pain, sudden onset of muscle weakness, or difficulty walking, we recommend seeking immediate medical attention for evaluation.

What can you do?

You should cease the activity and begin initial treatment with RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation). Rest may require crutches if there is difficulty walking. Ice should be applied to the injured site every 15 minutes at 1 to 2 hour intervals. Compression involves application of an elastic bandage around the injured site while elevation should be done with the injured site/limb resting on a chair or pillows that is above the level of the heart. You should continue RICE treatment until you consult a sports medicine doctor.

What can we do to help you?

Your doctor will take your history, perform a physical examination and perform a bedside ultrasound examination to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the damage to the muscle. Sometimes further investigations, such as a MRI, may be required to assess for other soft tissue damage. This will give us an estimation of how long recovery would take. We can prescribe treatment to reduce pain and swelling, restore range of motion and facilitate healing of the muscle. This includes physical rehabilitation with a progressive plan to return to activity.